Police: Heavily armed suspects robbed Gastonia store and a second in Belmont

Police are looking for three people they say committed an armed robbery in Gastonia this week.

The incident happened around 12:10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 19.

According to Gastonia Police, three masked, armed people burst into the Times Turnaround on South New Hope Road while another waited outside in a black Nissan Altima that had tinted windows.

The clerk saw them coming and ran out of the back of the store to safety.

Police did not say what if any cash or merchandise was taken before the suspects left the store.

Investigators believe they are responsible for a second robbery 20 minutes later at Circle K at 6441 Wilkinson Blvd., Belmont.

According to Belmont Police, three black males robbed the store clerk at gunpoint then fled the scene. They are viewing video from area businesses and ask that anyone with information call 704-825-3792.

Gastonia Police ask that anyone with information call 704-866-6069.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Police: Heavily armed suspects robbed Gastonia store and a second in Belmont